MHS football player charged with assault

A Mansfield High School football player has been arrested and charged with one count of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon after an investigation determined he alledgedly attacked another student with a belt during school hours.

A Mansfield High School student has been arrested and charged with one count of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon after an investigation determined he attacked another student with a belt during school hours.

Junior Alex Ruddy, 17, of 48 Southpark Lane, reported to the Mansfield police department on Friday, March 22 where he was arrested and later arraigned at the Attleboro District Court. Ruddy was released on personal recognizance.

The alleged incident took place on Friday, March 15 when administrators notified police that an assault occurred in the boy’s locker room.

At the conclusion of a gym class, Ruddy allegedly attacked another student with a belt, police said.

The injured student was treated for his injuries in the nurse’s office.

Sgt. Larry Crosman and Officer Matthew Souza were on scene to investigate the incident and spoke with many students. Written statements were also submitted, police said.

Police said high school administrators were cooperative during the investigation.

Ruddy, who plays varsity football, was selected to be captain for next year’s 2013 squad.

School Superintendent Brenda Hodges said Ruddy has been suspended, but could not provide how long the suspension is for or other details of any disciplinary action. She added that the case has not been closed by the school district since there are pending felony charges.

“We are upset and bothered by this incident and are very proud of those students who stepped up and intervened on behalf of the victim,” Hodges said. “These students responded in a manner that we believe represents the culture of the Mansfield High School community and the Mansfield community, at large. We will continue to work in partnership with our students and parents so that all children learn and thrive in a safe and supportive community that supports our increasing diverse population.”

Bullying programs exist in each of the schools, throughout the district, Hodges said.

“We review these each year, and work to make adjustments to address any issues that seem to be problematic from year to year,” she said. “With social media, we are always adjusting for how social media is utilized to bully other students. We continue to educate our students on reporting bullying and not tolerating bullying of other students in your presence. We work to provide students with safe and appropriate ways to report bullying and personal skills and resources to deal with bullying.”

While the district and the MIAA provide leadership training for the captains of Mansfield athletic programs, the high school principal and athletic director were in the process of scheduling an additional Leadership Training Program for the MHS captains, Hodges said.

“This training will be scheduled sooner that previously planned, if possible,” she said. “The coaches will also address bullying with their teams.”